India formulates offshore wind energy policy

The Indian government is working on an Offshore Wind Energy policy.

A group was set up to evolve a set of policy parameters.

Preliminary assessments show that there is a potential of I GW of power in the North of Rameshwaram and another 1 GW in the South of Kaniyakumari.

The Directorate General on Hydrocarbons has submitted a paper on the subject.

The paper recommends that wind resources off the Indian coasts will need to be assessed in the first instance to pin-point the areas most suitable for offshore wind firms.

Such an assessment will have to be made keeping in view other relevant factors such as oil/gas fields, shipping lanes etc. which will require clearance of all concerned government departments.

It also recommends that the provisions of EIA notification 2006, CRZ clearances, Merchant Shipping Act 1958

A project proposal where wind energy potential has been assessed would be taken up for appraisal and approval by the government.

A fast track clearance mechanism is also being sought to be put in place.